Book Description

Proven Tools for Transforming Your Work Life -

Consciousness, teaches Fred Kofman, is the capacity to observe, choose, and act in accord with your values. And "conscious business" means using that ability at every level of your work: in being aware of the needs of others and expressing your own—in seeing the hidden emotional obstacles that may be holding your team back—in making good decisions under pressure—and even in delving into such "spiritual" questions as "Who am I?" and "What is my real purpose here?" On Conscious Business, you will join this visionary teacher and founder of Leading Learning Communities to master these skills.

Higher Consciousness,Real World Results, What if you walked into your office tomorrow and discovered that others finally understood your work challenges and were ready to help you solve them…that every meeting was valuable…that everyone honored the commitments they made to you…and that your strongest talents were finally being put to use? For more than 10 years, Fred Kofman has helped organizations ranging from small nonprofits to major corporations become "learning communities" with these remarkable qualities. Now, you can learn the five specific skills you need to transform your workplace in the same way.

Becoming more conscious in business requires courage and an open mind. It means putting aside the "right way" in order to discover something better. If you’re ready to make that leap—and start turning your workplace into an adaptive and resilient community that cultivates intelligence, creativity, and integrity in every member — Conscious Business is the place to begin. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Could be called 'Conscious Living'
Fred Kofman does an outstanding of job of teaching the essentials of human interaction; communication, negotiation and implementation. His simple but profound insights are delivered in a converstational style and by the end of the program I felt like I had found a friend who inspired me to become a 'conscious leader'!

Learning to be conscious. Learning to be.
Consious Business is a wonderful way to understand that the only way of making our businesses and lives be what we want them to be is by doing the effort of becoming aware, of becoming present and becoming completely responsible players.

Interesting
Kofman presents much in the way of interpersonal relations but is weak in grounding his work in current psychological data.
Great sizzle, not much meat.

Simply Stated - Profoundly Moving
This book teaches great lessons on interpersonal relationships. Applying these lessons makes you a more real person both to yourself and others.

Want A real shift in the way you see yourself, your family and your co-workers? Give this a listen, you'll be glad you did.

Amazing and unique
I got the tapes and I believe this is a masterpiece. The way the concepts are integrated is unique. I strongly recommend this to any business leader seriously interested in living life as a player. ... Read more

Book Description

"Handy writes with the eloquence of simplicity and his gift to us is an enjoyable, profound, and reliable guide toward meaning and direction."--Max De Pree, author of Leading without Power and chairman emeritus, Herman Miller Inc.

Charles Handy's reflections on work and life have earned him legions of fans throughout the world. His previous books have together sold over a million copies. And his "Thought for the Day" series on BBC radio is celebrated throughout the U.K. Now present and future fans in America can sample what his BBC listeners have enjoyed for so long. Waiting for the Mountain to Move includes the gifted commentator's best essays, culled from ten years of radio broadcasts. These succinct writings draw poignant lessons from everyday occurrences and cause us to examine our lives, our institutions, and our society in a different and revealing light.

NOT FOR SALE OUTSIDE NORTH AMERICA

... Read more

Reviews (3)

Edxcellent Book
One of the easier to read books by Handy. Contains many interesting ideas presented in a easy to read and understand manner. Excellent.

Stop & ponder about some of the thoughts in the book!
An excellent book to make you stop and think about the realities of work and life. Prof. Handy has put some very valuable truths in the short essays in the book. Some of the essays touch on spiritual issues and I endorse the truths he mentions! The essays are short and you could read them at the start of a long commute and ponder over the thoughts during the journey. Or are we do too busy to do that even? For those you have read Prof. Handy's other books, don't miss this one!

The Greatest Living "Social Philosopher"
I can't say enough about Charles Handy's many books, and this little gem is absolutely thrilling. Comprised of 65 stories of about 500 words each, Handy's eloquent style and a non-proselytized collection of Christian anecdotes make each story a beautiful experience. Core values with a deep, profound essence of faith. I hope more Americans become familiar with his tremendous work. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Fantastic!
I've been in a "prosperity conscious" mode for the past several weeks and have been devouring books on money. I found Mark Fisher's book one of the best! I have highlighted sections on nearly every page. Yes, it's "old" information, but it never hurts to hear it again and again and again. That's how we change that subconscious mind he talks about. Truly, if you follow the principles, you will learn to Think Like a Millionaire.

ARE YOU TIRED OF BEING POOR, READ THIS BOOK
I have all of Mark Fishers' books. He is a very intersting writer. His books give sound advice about money or how to obtain it. Mark does a good job of instilling in us that we can have it all. Just shoot for the stars and stay focused on your dreams and it will happen. There is nothing that we can imagine, that we can't do. So what are we waitnig for, let's begin the journey of self fullfillment.

Well Done!
Mr. Fisher shows us here how Millionaires really think and act. We can see the world from their perspective and get an idea of what it's really like being a Millionaire. He clearly shows that wealth is indeed a state of mind. That's where it all begins.

Thank You, Steve.

My favorite book on wealth
This is my favorite book on the creation of wealth. It says nothing that hasn't been said before. Yet this book says it simply, concisely and distills what could take years to learn into a short and complete book. This is the first book I give people who ask me about money.

Good but very brief - more money to be spent on the sequel!
I liked the book because it brought out the common-sense we ignore daily. The Good Book says " As a man thinketh so is he" - Proverbs 23:7.

144 pages might be a reap off especially that the author states in the introduction that it took him 3 years to write the book and that he had to get some contributions from the co-author. ... Read more

Book Description

The acclaimed author of The Price of Motherhood applies the lessons of parenting to thebusiness world, blowing away the myth that the job of raising children is not "real" work. After reading numerous bestselling management books, Ann Crittenden noticed that theadvice was shockingly similar to that found in parenting books. After more than onehundred interviews, Ann also discovered that everyone felt the skills they learned as aparent made them better, more effective managers and workers.If You’ve RaisedKids, You Can Manage Anything illustrates the countless lessons learned fromraising a child that are directly applicable to the workplace.

With insight from prominent women in a number of fields, Crittenden discusses howchild-rearing:
o Calls for multitasking and sharpens focus in the midst of constant distractions
o Enhances interpersonal skills, including win-win negotiation
o Develops the ability to motivate and empower others
o Requires a keen sense of fair play and integrity

Full of positive, real-life stories and exploring whether corporate culture has begun torecognize the value of parenting, If You’ve Raised Kids, You Can ManageAnything is a groundbreaking book that validates what working mothers have knownall along. ... Read more

Book Description

"Alpha Leadership should be read by anyone seriously interested in understanding more about the leadership process. It breaks out of the pack of "me-too" leadership books with intriguing applications from across the spectrum of social and behavioral sciences. The authors provide fresh perspectives and insights into the process of leadership and becoming a more effective leader. Examples are exciting and intriguing and the applications descriptively practical." — Barry Z. Posner PhD, internationally recognized expert in leadership and leadership development, Dean of the Leavey School of Business at Santa Clara University, USA and author of The Leadership Challenge.

"Walk into the Leadership section of any bookshop and you get bombarded by a whole host of different ideas, strategies, and style manuals; most making academic and unrealistic promises for the "leader in the street". For a budding leader, it's not only confusing, but frustrating having your skills and aspirations benchmarked against people like Branson and Welch. Alpha Leadership really is different. It's more of a handbook than a straight read - you get as much from dipping into chapters that take your fancy, as from reading it start to finish. This is stuff you can use - key points are framed in a story that's easy to relate to; which helps you to see that, actually, some of the mindset and style of being a good leader is already lying dormant within you. All you have to do is give it a bit of thought to set your homegrown leadership potential free." —David Thompson, Vice President, Equity Learning & Development Manager, Investment Management, Merrill Lynch.

"A wonderful 'guide for the perplexed'. Explains how to persevere in shifting situations and fulfil your original purpose by different means - splendidly anecdotal and down-to-earth." — Charles Hampden-Turner, The Judge Institute of Management Studies, University of Cambridge. Co-author of Riding the Waves of Culture. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

a step ahead for who wants to lead in the new millennium
This book is an amazing merging of the experience , knowledge and wisdom of three experienced developers that gives the reader concepts, stories, tools and exercises to develop the type of skills any leader of this new millennium should own.
I believe that any Executive should have it and use it in his everyday activities and that the ones who help Executives in companies like HRD, coaches and facilitators should own the whole package for their greater results.
It's a very enjoyable book, a good manual that makes itself be read with interest, fun and ... action. We need more 'Alpha Leaders'!!!

This should become THE management book of 2002
Some talk about the emotional intelligence of leaders, others talk about level 5 leadership. This book focusses on what a leader should do in practice. It is written around a simple model I really like. It consists of 3 basic dimensions: Anticipate-Align-Act and 9 principles that come with these 3 dimensions of leadership. Anticipation requires that one can detect weak signals, has the agility to understand them and that the organization is flexible enough to respond. Align, the second dimension, is about assuring that the core purpose, values and beliefs of the organization are aligned with the actions of their leaders and their people. People's attitudes, values and the company culture need to be compatible with each other and this book lists attention areas and tools to increase this alignment. Finally, the third dimension has to do with acting fast enough, with attention for the 20% that makes the biggest difference and with the willingness to pursue goals with enough determination and patience. Simple as it seems, one wonders why so few leaders in companies apply this model today. I hope this book will be the stepping-stone some people need to become real "alpha leaders".

It's so well written that's irrelevant whether you have ever heard of NLP. When I wrote "7 Steps to Emotional Intelligence", I wanted to make my book accessible, helping people to develop a practical EQ, using the findings of behavioral sciences such as NLP. The authors of this book have done the same for the field of management, and I think they've done wonderful job! The result is a practical book that fits amongst the top business books, and I hope that Wiley will be able to put the needed marketing efforts behind it to turn this masterwork into a bestseller.

It's fully applicable by anyone leading an organization, so that doesn't leave many excuses for not being a good leader...

Patrick Merlevede - co-author of "7 Steps to Emotional Intelligence" ... Read more

Book Description

Many business leaders struggle with the dilemma of being successful and living a life with purpose.Often, their personal beliefs seem to conflict with the bottom-line demands of today's business world.God Is My CEO offers a practical and inspirational source of guidance for achieving a meaningful and accomplished life.

God Is My CEO details the experiences of highly successful business leaders who have managed to create impressive bottom-line results while upholding God's principals, including:

Horst Schulze, CEO, The Ritz Carlton Hotel Company

Ken Melrose, Chairman and CEO, The Toro Company

Bob O. Naegle Jr., Former Chairman and Co-owner, Rollerblade

Al Quie, Former Governor, State of Minnesota

C. William Pollard, Chairman and CEO, The ServiceMaster Company

God Is My CEO will help you . . .

Develop your God-given talents and skills, while building a spiritual center.

Focus your energies and thoughts on moving forward with a sense of purpose.

Learn to apply a practical daily plan to overcome the toughest business issues.

Gain ideas and encouragement through real-life stories of successful business leaders who have faced the same challenges. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Insightful!
So often executives check their faith in God at the door before coming to work. Using the stories of 20 influential leaders to illustrate 10 business principles, author Larry Julian skillfully shows that it is possible to integrate your religious faith and your work practices. These men and women successfully run major organizations, and all of them credit their belief in God for their achievements. Although some of the stories are more inspiring than others, this book promises relief from the pressures of the bottom line and freedom from the stumbling blocks that impede success, both temporal and eternal. Each chapter includes thought-provoking questions you can contemplate or use as the basis of further discussions. Julian ends with a step-by-step business plan showing you how to apply all your newly processed spiritual knowledge as a practical tool. Although - given that it is dedicated to Jesus Christ - the book seems primarily directed to Christians, We suggest that any leader who is trying to make a profit, keep priorities straight and motivate employees should take a look.

A Great Book!!!
For me, this book was truely inspirational, a breath of fresh air. I, (like many many others in society,I'm sure) used to believe that there was little room for God or our faith in the business world. It was just dog-eat-dog, Monday to Friday. Larry Julian shows you just how uninformed that thinking is. He interviews not just average business men & women, but captains of industry. True leaders in their field. And he shows you how these people not only believe in God, but practice their Faith and follow HIS teachings EVERY DAY. It is WHY they are so successful.
For those of you who think they have to choose between God or business, read this book.

Interesting, inspirational reading
America is populated by a great many people who attend religious services on a regular basis. They affiliate with a congregation of people who think, believe, and worship as they do. Millions of people build their lives around their religious beliefs and principles.

Then there's business. In the world of business, profit is worshipped by corporate leaders and employees at all levels. Achieving corporate goals becomes all-consuming, with little room for bible-based principles. Biblical teachings are fine for the personal side of life, but business is business. Or is it?

The movement known as spirituality in the workplace has been gaining momentum, with supporters careful to differentiate between spirituality and religion. The human spirit is central to the corporate spirituality theme, but God and religion do seem to find their way into the picture. When people express their spirituality, their religious beliefs underlie their values and approach, even if specific teachings are not overtly expressed.

In God is My CEO, Larry Julian surveys the landscape through the stories of twenty well-respected leaders. Each of these influential people runs a business through the application of biblical principles, with great results. You'll learn from people like Bill George, CEO of Medtronic; Jerry Colangelo, owner of the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks; Al Quie, the former governor of the state of Minnesota; and Archie Dunham, Chairman and CEO of Conoco, Inc.; Horst Schulz, CEO of the Ritz Carlton Hotel Company; and Truett Cathy, founder and Chairman of Chick-Fil-A, an amazingly successful quick service restaurant chain that's always closed on Sunday.

The helpful organization of the book takes us first through an understanding of the Clash of Two Worlds. You'll learn about the relationships and conflicts between profits and principles. The ten sections that follow each includes a statement of the issue and Julian's suggestion of a solution. The rest of each section is two chapters telling the story of the biblically-based executives. The ten sections are Purpose, Success, Courage, Patience, Leadership by Example, Yielding Control, Tough Decisions, Servant Leadership, Integration, and Priorities.

Each chapter explores real-life issues with some intriguing stories that will make you think. The religious theme is, of course, prominent in this book. However, while it is ever-present, the biblical message is comfortably woven into the vignettes. You'll be surprised how fast a read this book is, as you turn page after page to follow the stories.

Roger

Julian Captures the New Spirit of Business!
In his powerful book, _God Is My CEO_, Larry Julian moves the "bottom line" in business from "profit no matter what" to "profit from doing the right thing". Written from experiences in the trenches of the business world, this authoritative book contains real, personal stories from real people who have the courage to wrestle with real challenges and solve their dilemmas using their true beliefs, not the just latest fad management techniques. Julian's ability to get today's business leaders to bare their hearts and share their personal struggles allows_God Is My CEO_ to build a very credible case for tuning in and listening to the higher power that exists in all of us. The moving accounts of leadership turmoil and victory, the thought-provoking discussion questions and the immensely helpful "how-to's" found in this book make it a work that should be read and re-read by all of us who lead businesses today. I give my highest praise to _God Is My CEO_. It's the right thing to do. ... Read more

Book Description

Written in the distinguished tradition of Tao of Leadership, this guide is an ideal fusion of inspiration and incomparable business genius, revealing an approach to wisdom and success considered revolutionary and refreshing even in Japan. Each of its key principles for the enrichment of business and personal life is supported by anecdotes drawn from Dr. Inamori's vast experiece. Topics include: his reflections on: Ability; Effort; Attitude; Profit; Ambition; Sincerity; Strength; Innovation; Optimism; Never Give Up. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

An inspirational book with frequent bursts of wisdom
Kazuo Inamori's book is highly inspirational in its evocation of "passion" as the underpinning driver of success in life. In all fields of social endeavour, it is the most passionate individuals who stand out, and ultimately achieve success. We see this in the sporting arena (Muhammad Ali, Leyton Hewitt), in business (Richard Branson, Jack Welsh), and in politics.

Inamori's book is divided up into two parts. Part one provides a series of insights on "How to Succeed in Life", covering the following key areas: ability, effort, attitude, and success. His central thesis is that success = effort x ability x attitude. Most of us tend to see success as the result of effort and ability, but overlook the power of maintaining a positive attitude. Inamori urges the reader not to overlook the immense power that a positive attitude can have, both in terms of attracting support for our goals, and in terms of building and maintaining our own self esteem.

The second part of this book focuses on "How to Succeed in Business" and covers the following eight areas; passion, profit, ambition, sincerity, strength, innovation, optimism, and 'never give up'.

Above all else, this book contains genuine bursts of insight that will enrich the perspective of most readers. Unlike so many self-help products that promise the earth and deliver disappointment, this book is as close as the thinking person will get to "the real deal".

I would put this book on the same shelf with "The Witch Doctors" by Micklethwait & Wooldridge, and "Dangerous Company" by O'Shea & Madigan - all of these are excellent business books, and stand out as unique and valuable contributions to our understanding of the meaning of success in today's modern world of work.

Every leader should read this book
I've never written one of these reviews, but this is one of the treasured books in my library. I've owned it since it came out and continually refer to it for advice and council. I have also given it to many customers. Kyocera's website is also an inspiring to place to see how Mr. Inamori put his philosophy to work to bring a legacy of business success worldwide. His people-practices would change the world if practiced.

An Absolute Must Read!
This is a great book! Whether you read it straight through for the inspiration or read a section a day (usually only a page in length) as a meditation guide, just read it and absorb it. Give it to your boss, give it to your customers, give it to your peers, give it to your team members, even give it to your family. All will be better for it.

This is THE book
I bought this book back in 1995, and after much reflection and numerous business/leadership books, I must say Mr. Inamori is still in a class of his own. Though he teaches seemingly oversimplified concepts, it is indeed the correct concepts--if there is such a thing. Correct, for example, in that you can leave the world knowing your grandchildren will be proud that you existed. If you're familiar with Maslow hierarchy of needs: when you're reading this book, you will have no doubt that the author is at or above the self actualization stage, which I must say 90% of all the so called gurus of business don't seem to be in. The concept that you should speak from your heart, not implementing certain "techniques" in public speaking rings true for me personally. I'm grateful for such a gift from Mr. Inamori. ... Read more

Book Description

The Results-Driven Manager Series

Managers are under increasing pressure to deliver better results faster than the competition. But meeting today's tough challenges requires complete mastery of a full array of management skills, from communicating and coaching to public speaking and managing people. The Results-Driven Manager series is designed to help time-pressed managers hone and polish the skills they need most. Concise, action-oriented, and packed with invaluable strategies and tools, these timely guides will help managers improve their job performance today-and give them the edge they need to become the leaders of tomorrow.

Managing Yourself for the Career You Want

• Create and capitalize on new opportunities for advancement
• Find mentors and boost networking skills
• Enhance personal emotional intelligence
• Evaluate future job prospects
• Stay on a rewarding career track

Reviews (6)

Lacking depth
I am a firm believer in ongoing personal development, so I have continued to read and grow my perspective. Your Executive Image looked interesting because of attention given to clothing, space, gestures, etc...

Then I read it. Not all of it, but as much as I could before I realized this was a waste of time. For instance, the entire posture chapter could have been replaced with a single line: Posture is important as it conveys confidence or insecurity... The rest of the chapter reinforced this one point. Twenty minutes of time for a thirty-second concept. In some chapters, I didn't even see a worthwhile thirty-second concept (like the chapter on space).

Money could have been better spent elsewhere.

Excellent Use Of Time
This book continues all the sound advice I have received from my parents while I was growing up. The material contained in this book is an excellent reference for any person at any level of employment. I have been able to easily relate parts of the book to past experiences.

Getting To The Top
If a business minded individual wants to successfully make it to the top of the corporate ladder, then this book is a must. The author explains in great detail exactly what it takes to achieve "Your Executive Image." To keep and maintain employment the right image is a must and the author takes you there and keeps you there. I give this book as a gift to all of my friends.

Pass on this one...
This book seems to be something that some marketing people threw together to make a quick buck, and it shows. I should have realized from looking at the cover that is it not really about "Executive Image" the people look more like game show hosts. I hate to be so critical but there seems to be very little content, and what is there is questionable. For example it advises the use of black suits (Funeral overtone). I also purchased John T. Molloy's New Dress For Success and I am very happy with it and its content, this book I am returning.

I'm throwing this book in the garbage
This book is a complete waste of money. There's hardly any advice in here at all (bringing to mind the famous Wendy's commercial, "where's the beef?"), and much of the advice is just plain wrong.

...

The author has this to say about polyester: "Polyester resists wrinkling, so it's great blended with cotton for shirts. A men's dress shirt in 65 to 70 percent cotton and 30 to 35 percent polyester gives the comfort of cotton with the ease of care and great looks of polyester." Huh? Polyester looks good? Is she kidding? Polyester is the ugliest looking fabric you can wear. I can spot one of those partially polyester shirts from a mile away, and it screams "cheap shirt."

The book covers several other topics, such as body language and etiquette, but everything is presented in a very cursory manner, leaving many gaps and unanswered questions. Illustrations, which are very useful in books about dress and etiquette (when it comes to describing a suit or a place setting, a picture is indeed worth a thousand words) are completely lacking. Although the book is 273 pages, it's printed in a large font and half the book is white space and blank pages.

So in conclusion, don't waste your money on this book. I'm throwing my copy in the garbage. No point of even wasting bookshelf space on it.

... ... Read more

Book Description

Ordinary? Hardly. The 18 authors featured in this extraordinary book can hardly be called ordinary-neither can their advice. New York Times best-selling author Dr. Cherie Carter-Scott (If Life is a Game, These Are the Rules), acclaimed songwriter Jana Stanfield (her song "If I Had Only Known" was a quadruple platinum hit for Reba McEntire), and 16 of America's top motivational speakers have created a book by women for women. Each contributor brings not only her unique talents to bear on a powerful topic, but also her own experience and life stories. Readers will receive practical, empowering, and inspiring advice on: Dealing with difficult people; Attitude, balance, and faith; Becoming the person you choose to be; Making a difference and overcoming obstacles; Mothers and daughters;Celebrating, laughing, and letting go; Working, praying, and letting your light shine; And much more. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

You ladies out did yourselves!!!
The title says it all. These are some dynamic women who have been gracious enough to give us all real, practical and solid approaches for excelling. No matter who you are and where you are in life, there is something here for every women. Get a copy, and see for yourself! Then buy a copy for a friend who you know can use a boost.

Very Inspirational and Educational
I have shared this book with all my friends and family. This book covers it all! Heart, Mind and Soul!

Extraordinarily Written!
This book has become my new bible! The wonderful women in this book share their insights into how to become successful in life and do a great job at it! There are many practical tips to help you get started moving in the right direction whatever direction that may be. The stories are personal and you feel as if you've made a new friend in all of these women. They are truly an inspiration to womankind. I can't recommend the book enough! Great job ladies!! ... Read more

Book Description

This is not a book about marketing, but a roadmap to realizing your dreams.

Barry Becher and Ed Valenti set the stage for today’s infomercials with their now-famous television techniques. Their zany commercials-advertising such products as the Miracle Painter, Armourcote cookware, and, most famously, the Ginsu® knife-captured both the imagination and pocketbook of the American public.

And they became millionaires in the process.

But Wait, There’s More!

You’ll learn how to get a better price on anything you buy, how to get better service anywhere, even how to get easily get bumped from coach to first class on an airline.

How much would you pay for all the secrets of the universe? Don’t wait! Order The Wisdom of Ginsu® before midnight tonight. Operators are standing by. Satisfaction Guaranteed! ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Doesn't get much better!
Bill Gates, Walt Disney, Donald Trump . . . pioneers.Add the Ginsu Guys to that list immediately for coming up with the most ingenious television marketing strategy ever to grace television.Since then, advertisers have only copied their ideas.I can't imagine anyone better to get advice from than the originals.

I just can't believe that I finally get to learn the story behind the knives that have been ingrained in our society from the time of their introduction!BLOWN AWAY!!!

Should cost more
This is a must read. I cannot imagine anyone not getting some valuable wisdom from this book. Should sell for WAY MORE!

There is no wisdom in Ginsu
Save your money - look for wisdom elsewhere.This book was a thorough disappointment.But wait there's more...no there isn't.

Cuts the Mustard
the wisdom of Ginsu definitely Cuts the mustard. The author's "Ginsuisms"provide real-world, down-to-earth pearls of wisdom that make this book a true gem. It was a very enjoyable read.

Still Laughing
"You can gas up the dinghy and go fishing with Fredo, because you are dead to me!"That line, which I laughed about on the Green Line all the way from Brookline Village to Park Street, is the attitude Ed and Barry suggest you jokingly suggest that people who don't return your calls have towards you.It's typical of the humor and good fun that suffuse this book, which would be a great read even if the advice was worthless--but it's not!More added value from the guys who brought it to consumers for decades.This is a great look at a unique period in TV, marketing, and culture, and it comes complete with lessons you can apply every day.(You think I paid full price for that secondhand newspaper at Starbucks?Not after reading The Wisdom of Ginsu!)Would you expect a boring book from a couple of guys who sold millions of dollars in cookware by dropping a raw chicken onto a diamond ring?Wait before you answer, because they also painted a ceiling in a tuxedo AND kicked a watermelon to pieces AND survived betrayal by the Guardian of the Ginsu!This book is a riot, and pretty handy at that.Don't miss it. ... Read more

Book Description

The Harvard Business Review Paperback Series is designed to bring today's managers and professionals the fundamental information they need to stay competitive in a fast-moving world. From the preeminent thinkers whose work has defined an entire field to the rising stars who will redefine the way we think about business, here are the leading minds and landmark ideas that have established the Harvard Business Review as required reading for ambitious businesspeople in organizations around the globe.

With offerings ranging from the timeless classic "Management Time Who's Got the Monkey" to innovative, cutting edge ideas, this book provides busy managers with strategies for more effective time and stress management, and offers insights into what a manager's job really entails. This is a must read for any professional wanting to work more effectively and become a better manager.

... Read more

Book Description

"Business demands innovation. There is a constant need to feel around the fringes, to test the edges, but business schools, out of necessity, are condemned to teach the past.'

-- Mark H. McCormack, from "What They Don't Teach You at Harvard Business School" published by Bantam Books.

Mark McCormack is the founder of International Management Group, a multimillion-dollar, worldwide corporation that is a consultant to fifty Fortune 500 companies, a major producer of television programming and credited as the single most important influence in turning sports into big business.

Listen to McCormack as he tells you how to -- read people -- create the right first impression -- take the leading edge -run and attend meetings -- the secrets of successful selling and moving up within the organization.

McCormack shares his experience, technique and wisdom, his street smart insights and skills, in a practical, how-to manner. Business will never be the same! ... Read more

Reviews (20)

Some nice tricks
This book is somewhat over-rated. Some of the chapters are just common sense. But there are also some tricks in 'sales'. The book emphasizes on silence and importance of the silence in negotiation.

WASTE OF MONEY
This is a story book!I usually give books the benefit of the doubt but this book flat out sux.All this guy talks about is how he is some hot shot sports agent and the lessons he supposedly learned through the years.Let me tell you something, this book got old after the 2nd chapter.Every F'in paragraph has to do with one of his golf clients and bla bla bla.Its ridiculous.The title is true, they dont teach this at Harvard because they're stories of an individuals life which completely put me to sleep.But im not going to leave without giving some positives, like saying you should check out Automatic millionaire and the 12 critical factors books.Those are worth reading.Peace in the middle east!

What is bigger, national debt or author's EGO??
The book is full of nonsense that should be simple common sense to anyone that has worked in the business world.Mostly this book is a chance for the author to talk of his many "high level" meetings and for him to boast about all of the execs and sports figures that he knows.This book is rather entertaining, but you will not gain much from it in the way of business or management knowledge.

Give Yourself a Psychological Edge Over Others
This means reading people from the moment that you see or hear them, while you slow down, and place yourself fully in the moment, as you anticipate the future.

To do this you must have a good grip on who you are, and be more than okay with that.

While you have that, it's important to know the players involved in your business interaction - those present, and those not present.So, do your homework.

My favorite message, from this book, which I have used as a quote in published articles is, "If you alienate your peeers, you won't have to worry about corporate enemies."

Read this book to balance being yourself, and being a person amongst business people.

Didn't exactly set me on fire..
Mr. McCromick is indeed a great motivational writer/ speaker, but in this book, there is no new information that one doesn't already have by using common sense. No disrespect to Mark but they probably don't teach common-sense at Harvard Business School because there is a great possibility that the guys who make it to HBS already possess enough of it. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

You don't need this book to be a success, but it might help
In order to be successful, you need to determine first what success for you is. Don't let yourself be programmed by the consumeristic media about what success is.

Zig Ziglar delves into this issue by making the point that success doesn't just mean being successful in one area of your life, like in your career. True success comes from living a well rounded life and being successful in all areas of your life from family and personal relationships, to self image to money and career. I believe that this is a good overall approach to take and I found the book interesting and informative on this front.

I personally believe that people often take success too seriously. Self help is ok, but just don't get all bent out of shape about it. Do what you love to do and be the best person that you can be in life. Success is not an event, but a continuing process. Ziglar makes this point in the book as well.

The one annoyance I have with this book is that the author uses religion to make some of his points. I am not religious in the traditional sense of the word, and felt that he could have made the same points without alienating people by bringing religion into it.

Well rounded approach to success
This book covers all areas of life that people need to address to be successful. I appreciated his coverage of the importance of spirituality. Although he is a mainstream Christian, he makes clear that spirituality can be found in other religions as well.

The only thing I disagreed with were his comments about obedience being vital to success. I don't believe in absolute obedience. Obdience to organizations and authority figures should be relative. For example, if you have a religious authority figure who wants you to do something unethical or immoral, you should follow your conscience and remain obedient to God's law as found in the Bible. Human beings do not deserve absolute obedience as they are imperfect and prone to mistakes.

Also, I thought he used too many examples of famous people in sports as positive examples. I do not play golf and couldn't care less about sports, but I still tried to find the positive in his statements (such as the value of personal integrity, the value of working together as a team, etc.) Is the person who is not rich or famous unsuccessful?

Earth to Zig...
The author states that one can get what one wants by helping others get what they want.

He not from big city, is he?

Good book, but not in the "For Dummies" format
This book is an inspirational roadmap in a well balanced and successful life. Zig Ziglar draws upon a wealth of personal experience to illustrate the importance of balancing the various parts of out lives to attain to true success, not just material success. The fault I find with this book is that its subject matter is not a good fit for the "For Dummies" format. Success in life is not a subject you can pick and choose, which is the essence of the "For Dummies" concept. This is a good book, but be prepared to read it cover to cover to derive the greatest benefit.

I felt lost in my career until I found this book!
I decided to check this book out of the library at a time in my life when I couldn't decide what I wanted to do in life. I had been out of college for two years, and couldn't seem to find a job in my field since I moved to Ga., despite my interviews. I was exploring different fields related to Special Ed. It sounds weird but, somehow while reading this book, I just knew what I was suppossed to be doing. Due to the series of questions he asked you about your goals. I highly reccomend this book to any one who can't decide where to go in life. Zig, told me that I wasn't really "lost" I just needed to find some direction in life. He was so right! I guess I just needed someone to tell me to wake up and decide what I was going to do with the rest of my life instead fo just subing all the time. Ironically, enough he guided me back on track to Special Ed, when I read the story about the man who found himself going back to the same career he used to do. I guess I just needed someone to tell me that for my life to feel on track, I needed to enroll in the TAPP (teacher alternative program), and be a Special Ed teacher instead of just being the aid like always. I really feel like God wanted me to find this book at this time in my life. True, Zig is relgious, but even if you aren't I feel like anyone could benift from his book. It has quite a few "duh" moments that a lot of people never think of. I have been hearing about Zig ever since I was like 9 or 10 and had always wanted to go to his seminars, but never had the chance. It is so true about what people think about him! Thanks Zig! ... Read more

Book Description

Art Williams started out as a high school football coach, earning $10,700.But he didn't stay there for long.By believing in himself enough to take a chance, he became a winner who today heads his own muti-million dollar invidual life insurance company.And in this bestselling, plain-speaking, up-beat book he coaches you to the top with his winning system, which includes: a remarkable six-step plan to visualize and achieve your goals; four proven principles to help you become everytihng you ever thought you could be; proven techniques to short-circuit frustrating failure messages; frontline advice from someone whose been in your shoes, PLUS, the ultimate secret ingredient to winning.This is not a get-rich-quick scheme, or a pie-in-the-sky promise, but a phenomenal program that proves it's never too late to start again, with powerful tools and a revolutionary belief in your own unlimited potential.

... Read more

Reviews (20)

Good For A Quick Fix Of Motivation
Art Williams is truly amazing. From a career as a high school football coach to the owner of his own insurance company Williams went from pauper to millionaire.

This book is an incredible story of success in spite of tremendous odds and obstacles. Art Williams grew his insurance company, A.L. Williams (now Prime America I believe), when Prudential and other companies dominated the market.

Nearly everyone was telling Art that it couldn't be done and that he was nuts. They laughed at him.

Who's laughing now? Well, Prudential is still around, but Art Williams is certainly able to laugh or do whatever he wants now. Maybe you can too if you follow his lead. The first step is to get this book and read about this amazing individuals' life.

Ths book will excite you!
Take it from the man who made the impossible possible. Starting with a $10,500 salary and outselling the Insurance giants like Pru and Met! Educating the general public to the folly of cash value insurance, "buy term and invest the rest" great strategy.I particularly like Art Williams philosophy of being devoted to a cause, having a goal that is bigger than yourself.Great book. All sales and network marketing people must read this book.dell-ites@wbtv.net

How to win when all is against you.
This story is a true American story. How a small band of "average, middle-Americans" upset an entire industry, with nothing but a "crusade" - as Art calls it.

This is entrepreneurism at its best! Not only is this a great read, but it is chock-full of "unwritten laws" than can help any would-be-entrepreneur.

NOT Just Another Self-Help Book
Whenever I pick up a "self-help" book, I'm always skeptical. I think, "Okay, I've been around the block before, so what can you teach me?"

In this case, Williams can teach you a lot. After reading this book, you'll feel like you can walk into the lion's den with a string of raw meat hanging from your neck and come out a winner. But as Williams warns, success is not easy. It's not for people who give up, who listen to their fears, or who will not give their all.

Williams has been there. He not only tells his story, but also other success stories. The book doesn't offer pie-in-the-sky "feel-good" philosophies, just plain, solid fundamentals that we all need. The bottom line is it's never too late to make a change. But the people who don't attempt to make their lives better never will. But what do you do? You can start by reading this book. You won't regret it.

295 pages

Courage to make a difference
Art Williams comes from the no-nonsense culture of the south. I too was raised with these straight shooting values and find his courage to make a difference truly inspirational. He took an industry that forever had a bad name and revolutionized the approach of helping people to win. He created a win-win for the insurance industry and allows people to feel terrific again about doing the right thing. Do the right thing for yourself and read this account of how he learned how to market doing the right thing and make it possible to earn a handsome living doing it. ... Read more

Book Description

She who has the most joy wins!

Accomplished author, entrepreneur, and former Essence editor in chief Monique Greenwood offers a refreshing prescription for personal and professional success, showing any woman how to have financial freedom, fulfilling work, loving relationships, great style, a sense of purpose, and a balanced and joyful life.

As Greenwood convincingly argues in her provocative new book, success is highly subjective -- or at least it should be. "What rocks my world may feel like a rock in your shoe," she advises. Having What Matters gives African-American women the confidence to define success for themselves and the techniques to turn their dreams into reality.

Greenwood shows you:

• How to identify the illusions that hold you back
• How to track your dreams and create "the plan"
• Why no dream is impossible

Her very own life-from anonymity to the top of the Essence masthead, from an unfit size eighteen body to a shapely size twelve, from a cramped rental apartment to a mansion of her own, from countless bad relationships to a sweet union -- is evidence that her "bootstrapping" strategies work.

Funny, down-to-earth, and motivational, Greenwood asserts that to achieve true personal satisfaction, a woman doesn't have to work harder, but she must manage her life smarter. It was while writing this book that Greenwood really reflected on these lessons and decided to leave her esteemed position as editor in chief of Essence to devote more time to self, family, and the development of her own businesses. Reading Having Mat Matters will change your life, too.

Reviews (11)

From the Heart
I've never been big on self-help books because they tend to reiterate "common sense", Monique Greenwood's "Having What Matters" is somewhat different. Instead of telling the reader what they need to do, Monique discusses episodes in her life. These episodes may have lead her to achieving a goal or backfired and forced her to re-evaluate her actions. I felt like I was having a heart-to-heart discussion with a sista that knows herself as well as me.

AFFIRMING, ENLIGHTENING ADVICE
Monique's book is a thought-provoking, sister-loving guide that will help those seeking guidance to new mind-sets, techniques and tools to re-affirm their self-worth as well as help them get their personal, financial and professional lives together. The book could've used more references to parenting and to relying on faith/God, but Ms. Greenwood's book is a great start on the journey to a new life. For those seeking spirituality, they won't find it here, but this is still a worthwhile read.

What a refreshing book!
I really enjoyed Monique's book. It is conversational, on-point, relevant, inspiring and educational. The author's business savvy, family balance and spirit jump off the pages. This is a refreshing easy read book that motivates and reminds us what really matters in life!

What matter to you.....Get busy yawl
When I think of reading a book, I never think of a self-help book. Not because I believe I know everything but when I read, I want entertainment. I could not envision a self-help book that could do that. Having What Matters, entertaining moments were strategically placed throughout the book. The author's calm wit kept me turning pages.The nine chapter titles were simple such as, "Successfully Defining Success and "Leaving the World a Better Place," but they were filled with an abundance of information.

After reading the first paragraph of the introduction, and remembering a time my sister took me by Mrs. Greenwood's Bedford Stuyvesant mansion, I regarded her as EF Hutton and I intended to listen to her narration. If listening to her would help me achieve what she has, an eighteen room mansion, a closet filled with designer clothes and shoes, owning four prosperous businesses, two bed and breakfast inns, a restaurant, a coffeehouse as well as a stint as editor in chief of Essence magazine, my ears and eyes are wide open.

Having What Matters helps the black woman to define her success. Mrs. Greenwood proudly wears the term "bootstrapper" mentality. It means a person who has the mindset of not the victim but the winner; an individual who can rise above the trials and tribulations she is faced with. Mrs. Greenwood's burning desire is to be able to give each of us what we need to get what matters to us. What does it matter to have a high paying job, but you dread going to work everyday? This book should be amongst all the things that matter the most to you.

Missy
APOOO BookClub

GOOD ADVISE WELL WORTH TAKING!
A guide every women should try to follow...The "Bootstrappers" approach make perfect sense - every sistah can have that meaningful life which they deserve. If nothing else, the book will make you think about how your going about your life, and what changes you could make to make it even better! ... Read more

Book Description

Foreword by Stephen R. Covey

Are outer demands for more success, more money, and more prestige overwhelming your inner longings? Is your work no longer energizing you? Years of frenetic activity and blind ambition have robbed many people of the joy and fulfillment they once found in their work. The successes they crave and failures they fear have come to define them.

But there is hope, and it can be found in a few simple yet timeless stories.

The great Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen succinctly illuminated life's challenges in his treasured fairy tales for children and adults. And now, in celebration of H.C. Andersen's 200th birthday, the powerful lessons of these classic folk tales have been ingeniously applied to the complexities of the modern workplace.

The Ugly Duckling Goes to Workprobes H. C. Andersen's sharp and witty stories for lessons that will inspire you to bring more meaning, more energy, and more joy to your work -- to create a meaningful work life. You'll read about:

* The Emperor's New Clothes: This prickly story pokes fun at phoniness and snobbery and shows how fear and ego can drive you to foolishness. You'll learn to reclaim your own agenda by using two terrific fool-detectors: self-awareness and candid conversations.
* The Ugly Duckling: This fierce tale of rejection, survival, longing, learning, and growing teaches you that success is not just having a great career, but finding out where you belong and becoming the person you were meant to be.
* The Dung Beetle: The dung beetle, a self-absorbed and status-driven creature, provides a cautionary example of the need to get past illusions and face the reality of your strengths and weaknesses in order to succeed.
* The Nightingale: This charming story looks at a plain little bird that sings the most enchanting songs, drawing its strength from nature, meaning, and freedom -- in sharp contrast to the gold, titles, and applause that motivate the emperor's court. The tale teaches you to push beyond mere perfunctory performances and reach your full potential.

In addition to the concise summaries and probing analyses of H. C. Andersen's tales, The Ugly Duckling Goes to Work includes the author's new translations of the full texts, which restore the humor and rich detail often muted in previous English translations. Simple but never simplistic, these insightful interpretations and translations of some of the most cherished stories ever written will help you look deeply at your life, laugh lightly at your flaws, and make the changes needed to build a more meaningful, joyful work life. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Fairy Tales for Real Life
I had the joy of reading Mette Norgaard's book and found what I have been yearning for in a business book. Most focus on process, technique, and modernity, but Mette takes us back in time. She re-introduces us to H.C. Anderson (someone we never really knew), while re-visitng his works in the context of our busy work lives. Through these fairy tales, she acts as a guide to us, posing thought-provoking questions at the end of each story which enable us to improve the quality of our work life and therefore, our personal life as well.

I found this book insightful, educational, and charming. I learned that H.C.Anderson truly wrote tales of "Everyman". Every time I started on a new story, I just knew it would be "the one" I would most easily identify with, but instead I found elements in all of them that were provocative and helpful to me.

My deepest thanks to the author for a refreshing experience that unleashed my thoughts and presented some new paradigms for me. I loved the book!

Wonderful Book!
This book is wonderful! I have to admit that I was skeptical at first thinking the author would give trite interpretations of the fairy tales. But WOW! I really liked it. I liked it because of the format and the insights. First, Dr. Norgaard starts each section with a "Did you Know" section that gives great context of the author and some of the facts about the fairy tell. There is also a summary and full length version of the fairy tell--both valuable either as a first time summary or a detailed review of the original text.

Second, Dr. Norgaard enables the reader to discover some great insights to the stories that I found valuable. The book would have been trite had Dr. Norgaard provided the "how" or the application of each story. Instead she asked some very insightful questions that helped me make the application and want to dig deeper into the meaning.

In short, I think this is a wonderful book to help in business or personal pursuits alike. I'm going to recommend this book to my clients. Take a read. I think you'll really enjoy it.

Philosophy, interesting reading
This book is based on the classic tales written by Hans Christian Andersen. Norgaard, born and raised in Denmark, presents six of the tales. Each is presented in summary form, then in full context. Next comes commentary about what Andersen was saying, including nuances that come from the Danish text and not from the English translation. In each chapter, the moral of the tale is explained. Some business context is provided, but not enough that it was clear that this is a management book.

I found this book to be an interesting read. Taking children's fairy tales and finding lessons for business in the 21st century is an interesting concept. It's fascinating how the moral teachings of long ago apply in today's context. While the messages are related to business, this is more a book of wisdom than technique. You'll find the content to be thought-provoking and filled with relevant teachings. If you want a hard, practical book, look elsewhere.

A Wonderful Little Book Full of Wisdom
This is a wonderful little book full of wisdom. It is about Hans C. Andersen's fairy tales, which contain profound truths for all times. The first tale, especially, brings to mind the recent corporate scandals at Enron and Worldcom. If you couldn't see how their deals made money, "You just didn't get it." You were viewed as stupid, as not belonging with the company. Many people pretended they did "get it," rather than risk looking confused or clueless.

On another level, I enjoyed this book as an artistic creation, a tapestry that Ms. Norgaard carefully weaves. The threads -- the history of the man (H.C. Andersen) and his writings, the stories in short and long form, and Norgaard's personal reflections -- are all woven together in a beautiful way.

One of the key messages in the book is the importance of authenticity. The author remains true to this concept in her use of historical facts, the careful translation that goes back to the earlier meanings of words, and the absolute honesty of her personal reflections.

By re-introducing us to these tales of timeless truths, Ms. Norgaard offers a gift to a 21st century audience.

Re- Discovery Andersen
I loved this book for lots of reasons, but the two top reasons were the two levels of discovery I enjoyed while reading.First was the discovery of a much more sophisticated Hans Christian Andersen (now I know should be referred to as H.C. Andersen).Secondly, was the self discovery in reading and interpreting the meanings of these great little stories.

Dr. Norgaard introduces us to the sophisticated H.C Andersen by presenting her translations - from her beloved native Danish - of the Andersen's stories, designed to be read to children with adult messages.One can thoroughly enjoy the book, just by reading these newly translated stories.

The greater discover comes, however when you treat yourself to read how skillfully Dr. Norgaard applies the lessons presented in a child's tale to provoke very adult thinking.Whether you agree with Dr. Norgaard's analysis or not, she will make you think.Not only will she make you think, you will push you to grow and challenge yourself to apply these wisdoms of presented in YOUR workplace.A challenge much easier said than actually done.

Give yourself a treat, remember your own story telling hour as a child and push yourself to grow to a more thoughtful person at work.Even better, share the book around the office and see how many "translations" can be provoked.
... Read more

Book Description

How can company leaders and employees negotiate their different religious and spiritual commitments in the workplace? At a time of international debate over religious conflict and tolerance, workforces in various parts of the world are more diverse than ever before. Religion and spirituality are, for many employees, central to their identities. From the perspective of the employer, however, they can be distracting or divisive influences. This book analyzes the current interest in religion and spirituality in US companies. It offers conceptual distinctions and comparative examples (from the pluralistic contexts of India and Singapore) to trace the myriad ways that religion is present at work. It offers a model of respectful pluralism, asserting that the task of effective and ethical leadership in organizations is not to promote a single spiritual or religious framework but to create an environment in which managers and employees can respectfully express their own beliefs and practices. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Unravelling the snarls of workplace relgious diversity
The author gives a thoughtful review of how leadership can cope with diverse expressions of people's religions as inevitably found in work environments.Rather than seeing such diversity as divisive, or flattened out by a superficial "spirituality," Hicks encourages appreciation of what it means if a Muslim woman wears a hijab, or a Sikh requires a turban, an evangelical wants to put a "Jesus Saves" sign inside his locker, or an Adventists needs Saturdays off.The author believes a respectful pluralism is the best means of management, one carefully cultivated to allow individual appreciation without signs of coercion or disrespect. ... Read more